Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

In 1 1/2 quart casserole dish, mix together sugar, cornstarch, cocoa, salt and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Once it is mixed well, stir in remaining milk. Microwave on high for 5 to 8 minutes or until thick; stir halfway through cooking.

In a small bowl, place a small amount of the hot mixture and beat together with egg yolks. Stir back into original mixture in casserole dish. Microwave on high for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until thickened; stir frequently. Blend in butter and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Pour mixture into pastry shell.

To Make Meringue: In a small bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar at a time until stiff peaks form; stir in vanilla. Spread meringue over top of pie filling.

Seal rim of pie with aluminum foil, then bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or just until meringue gets browned.

Most Helpful Positive Review

Sep 14, 2006

I have been making chocolate pies like this for years. It also works for coconut (leave off the chocolate and add coconut, sprinkling coconut on the meringue). The only difference in this recipe and mine is that I use 1 cup of sugar and 6 T of cocoa along with 3T flour and 1 1/2 T cornstarch. This makes a little more filling and I like the texture better than using just cornstarch for thickening. I also use a wire whisk to stir.

Very dark chocolate. Great flavor and easy to make, though I think I'd personally prefer the meringue to be a bit higher. My husband, who normally doesn't like chocolate pie, scraped his plate clean and wanted assurance there was going to be some left for later!

This was really good and very easy. I didn't have cream of tartar, but my meringue turned out just fine. Next time I may actually double the meringue because I like more, but all and all it was fantastic!

This makes a wonderful base for banana or coconut cream pie also, just omit the cocoa. I do find that when I make it without the cocoa that I do have to cook it about a minute longer in the first step than I usually do to get it to thicken. I usually make a chocolate and a banana cream for when we have family nights and everyone is here.
Slice 2 bananas in the bottom of your cooled crust and then add the pudding mixture after it is slightly cooled. I usually top with whipped topping and toasted sliced almonds. (If using coconut stir in 1/2 cup or amount desired into the mixture after stirring in butter and vanilla, then pour into crust.)
All are huge hits at our house!

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-)Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.